1 Thessalonians 5:18

KJV

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

KJV (with Strong's)

In {G1722} every thing {G3956} give thanks {G2168}: for {G1063} this {G5124} is the will {G2307} of God {G2316} in {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424} concerning {G1519} you {G5209}.

Complete Jewish Bible

In everything give thanks, for this is what God wants from you who are united with the Messiah Yeshua.

Berean Standard Bible

Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

American Standard Version

in everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus to you-ward.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Thessalonians 5:18 is a profound exhortation from the Apostle Paul, urging believers to cultivate a pervasive attitude of gratitude in all circumstances. This verse anchors the practice of thanksgiving not merely as a beneficial spiritual discipline but as a direct expression of God's sovereign and loving will for those who are united with Him "in Christ Jesus." It underscores that gratitude is an essential characteristic of the Christian life, empowered by one's relationship with Christ and foundational to living in accordance with divine purpose.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** First Thessalonians, likely one of Paul's earliest epistles, concludes with a series of practical commands for Christian living in chapter 5. Verse 18 is part of a powerful triad of imperatives found in [1 Thessalonians 5:16-18](/1_thessalonians/5-16-18 "1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - Rejoice, Pray, Give Thanks"), which states, "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks." These three commands are presented as foundational and continuous spiritual postures for believers, emphasizing an unceasing disposition of joy, constant communion with God, and pervasive gratitude, irrespective of external circumstances. The preceding verses address the return of Christ and the importance of sober living, while the subsequent verses offer further practical instructions on spiritual discernment, respect for leaders, and mutual encouragement within the community.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The church in Thessalonica was relatively young, composed of both Jewish and Gentile converts, and faced significant challenges. They were experiencing persecution from both their Jewish countrymen and the pagan society, as evidenced in [1 Thessalonians 1:6](/1_thessalonians/1-6 "1 Thessalonians 1:6 - Imitators of the Lord in Affliction"). This persecution, combined with internal misunderstandings about eschatology (the study of end times) and the nature of Christian living, necessitated Paul's encouragement. In a world where gratitude often depended on favorable outcomes or the appeasement of gods, Paul's command to give thanks "in every thing" would have been counter-cultural, challenging them to find their source of stability and joy in God alone, rather than in their fluctuating circumstances.
* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several key themes woven throughout First Thessalonians. It reinforces the theme of **Christian Conduct and Holiness**, demonstrating how a life "in Christ" should manifest itself in practical, daily living, even amidst adversity. It highlights **God's Sovereign Will**, presenting thanksgiving as a direct expression of alignment with divine purpose for believers. Furthermore, it underscores the theme of **Endurance and Hope in Suffering**, by providing a spiritual discipline—gratitude—that enables believers to maintain faith and perspective even when facing trials. This theme is consistent with Paul's broader teaching on suffering, as seen in passages like [Romans 5:3-5](/romans/5-3-5 "Romans 5:3-5 - Rejoicing in Suffering"). Finally, the phrase "in Christ Jesus" emphasizes the **Christ-Centered Nature of Christian Life**, indicating that true gratitude is not a human effort but a divinely empowered response rooted in one's union with Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **give thanks (Greek, _eucharistéō'_):** This verb, G2168, means "to be grateful, i.e. (actively) to express gratitude (towards)." It is the root of the English word "Eucharist," highlighting its connection to a profound act of grace and blessing. The term combines *eu* (good, well) and *charis* (grace, favor), signifying that thanksgiving is a response to the "good grace" or "good favor" of God, acknowledging His unmerited kindness and goodness in all circumstances.
* **will (Greek, _thélēma'_):** G2307 refers to "a determination (properly, the thing), i.e. (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination." In this context, it denotes God's active purpose and decree for believers. It is not merely a suggestion or a preference but a divine mandate, indicating that gratitude is an essential and non-negotiable aspect of living in alignment with God's design for His children.
* **in (Greek, _en'_):** G1722, a primary preposition, denotes a "fixed position (in place, time or state), and (by implication) instrumentality (medially or constructively)." Its repetition in the verse ("In every thing" and "in Christ Jesus") is crucial. In "in every thing," it signifies the sphere or context within which thanksgiving is to occur, not necessarily the object *for* which one is thankful. In "in Christ Jesus," it denotes the sphere of salvation and spiritual union, indicating that this divine will and the capacity to fulfill it are found exclusively within the believer's relationship with Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"In every thing give thanks:"** This opening clause sets the scope of the command: gratitude is to be practiced universally, not selectively. The Greek preposition *en* ("in") indicates that thanksgiving is to be a consistent posture *within* all circumstances, rather than being contingent upon favorable outcomes. It implies a recognition of God's sovereignty and presence even amidst trials, allowing believers to find reasons for gratitude regardless of their immediate situation. This is a call to a disposition of heart that transcends fleeting emotions or external conditions.
* **"for this is the will of God"**: The conjunction "for" (Greek, *gár*) introduces the divine rationale and authority behind the command. The practice of giving thanks in all things is explicitly declared to be God's direct "will" or purpose. This elevates thanksgiving from a mere suggestion or a good practice to a divinely ordained mandate, signifying its essential role in the life of a believer who seeks to live in obedience and alignment with God's desires.
* **"in Christ Jesus concerning you."**: This final phrase specifies the context and recipients of this divine will. The command is specifically for those who are "in Christ Jesus," highlighting that this is a truth and an expectation for believers who are united with Him through faith. The phrase "concerning you" (Greek, *eis hymâs*) further personalizes the command, making it clear that this is God's particular design and purpose for each individual believer. It implies that the capacity and motivation to give thanks in all things are empowered by one's relationship with Christ, who provides the ultimate hope, perspective, and strength needed to face life's challenges with gratitude.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Emphasis** is achieved through the repetition of the preposition "in" (Greek, *en*), first defining the scope ("in every thing") and then the spiritual sphere ("in Christ Jesus"). This repetition underscores both the universality of the command and its Christ-centered foundation. **Conciseness** is evident in the verse's compact structure, delivering a profound theological truth and practical command in a few powerful words. This brevity makes the command memorable and impactful. The verse also functions as a **Divine Mandate**, presented as a clear and authoritative statement of God's will, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding the importance of gratitude. Finally, the phrase "in Christ Jesus" serves as a form of **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, where "Christ Jesus" represents the entire redemptive work, spiritual union, and empowering presence of the Savior, which enables believers to fulfill this challenging command.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Thessalonians 5:18 profoundly shapes our understanding of Christian life by establishing gratitude as a non-negotiable aspect of God's will for His people. It teaches that thanksgiving is not merely a response to blessings but a fundamental posture of faith that acknowledges God's sovereignty and goodness even amidst adversity. This perspective transforms suffering into an arena for spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God, demonstrating that true joy and peace are rooted in Him, not in fleeting circumstances. The verse also highlights the transformative power of being "in Christ Jesus," implying that our union with Him provides both the divine mandate and the spiritual enablement to live a life characterized by continuous gratitude. This gratitude, therefore, becomes a testament to the believer's trust in God's ultimate plan and His unfailing love.

* [Ephesians 5:20](/ephesians/5-20 "Ephesians 5:20 - Giving Thanks Always for Everything")
* [Philippians 4:6-7](/philippians/4-6-7 "Philippians 4:6-7 - Do Not Be Anxious, But Pray with Thanksgiving")
* [Colossians 3:17](/colossians/3-17 "Colossians 3:17 - Whatever You Do, Do All in the Name of the Lord Jesus, Giving Thanks")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Thessalonians 5:18 challenges believers to cultivate a lifestyle of gratitude that transcends transient feelings or favorable conditions. It calls for a deliberate choice to acknowledge God's presence, goodness, and ultimate control in every situation. This is not a call to be thankful *for* evil or suffering, but to be thankful *in* the midst of it, recognizing God's enduring faithfulness and redemptive purposes. Practically, this involves consciously seeking out reasons to be thankful, even in the smallest blessings or amidst significant challenges, and making thanksgiving a regular part of prayer, worship, and daily reflection. Embracing this command fosters a deeper relationship with God, builds spiritual resilience, and enables us to experience His peace even when the world around us is chaotic. It transforms our perspective, shifting our focus from what we lack or what is wrong to what God has provided and what He is accomplishing, thereby revealing the depth of our trust in His sovereign and loving will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it truly mean to give thanks "in every thing," especially when facing difficult or painful circumstances?**
* **How does understanding that this is "the will of God" change your motivation and approach to practicing gratitude?**
* **In what practical ways can you cultivate a more consistent attitude of thanksgiving in your daily life?**
* **How does your union "in Christ Jesus" empower you to give thanks even when it feels challenging?**

### FAQ
**Does "in every thing give thanks" mean we should be thankful for evil or suffering?**

Answer: No, the verse does not command us to be thankful *for* evil, sin, or suffering. Instead, the Greek preposition "in" (G1722, *en*) indicates that believers are to maintain an attitude of gratitude *within* every circumstance. This means that even when facing trials, pain, or injustice, we can still find reasons to give thanks to God. We give thanks for His presence, His faithfulness, His sovereignty, His promise to work all things for good ([Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good")), and the ultimate hope we have in Christ. It's about recognizing God's enduring goodness and control over all situations, rather than being grateful for the negative events themselves.

**Why is giving thanks considered "the will of God"?**

Answer: Giving thanks is the will of God because it reflects a heart that trusts in His sovereignty, goodness, and wisdom, regardless of circumstances. It demonstrates our dependence on Him and acknowledges His rightful place as the Giver of all good things. This posture of gratitude aligns us with God's design for humanity, which is to live in joyful communion and worship of Him. When we give thanks, we are actively participating in His purpose for our lives, which is to glorify Him and find our deepest satisfaction in Him. It is an essential aspect of living out our identity "in Christ Jesus," as it cultivates a spirit of contentment and peace that transcends worldly conditions, as also seen in [Philippians 4:6-7](/philippians/4-6-7 "Philippians 4:6-7 - Do Not Be Anxious, But Pray with Thanksgiving").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The command to "give thanks in every thing" finds its ultimate fulfillment and enablement in Christ Jesus. It is not a legalistic burden but a liberating truth made possible by our union with Him. In the Old Testament, thanksgiving was often linked to deliverance and blessings, but Christ's redemptive work provides a new, eternal basis for gratitude that transcends earthly circumstances. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus became the ultimate expression of God's grace, enabling us to approach God with thanksgiving even amidst suffering, knowing that He has overcome the world ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World")). Our ability to give thanks in all things is a direct result of the Holy Spirit's work within us, a Spirit given to those who are "in Christ" ([Romans 8:9-11](/romans/8-9-11 "Romans 8:9-11 - The Spirit Dwells in You")). Furthermore, Christ Himself modeled a life of gratitude, even in the face of immense suffering, giving thanks before breaking bread at the Last Supper ([Matthew 26:26-27](/matthew/26-26-27 "Matthew 26:26-27 - The Institution of the Lord's Supper")) and before raising Lazarus from the dead ([John 11:41](/john/11-41 "John 11:41 - Jesus Gives Thanks Before Raising Lazarus")). Thus, living a life of pervasive thanksgiving is a Christ-like attribute, a testament to the transforming power of the Gospel, and a foretaste of the eternal worship we will offer Him in glory ([Revelation 7:12](/revelation/7-12 "Revelation 7:12 - Blessing, Glory, Wisdom, Thanksgiving, Honor, Power, and Might Be to Our God Forever and Ever")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ephesians 5:20

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

Philippians 4:6

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Colossians 3:17

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, [do] all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

Hebrews 13:15

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of [our] lips giving thanks to his name.

1 Peter 4:2

That he no longer should live the rest of [his] time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.

Job 1:21

And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.

Psalms 34:1

¶ [A Psalm] of David, when he changed his behaviour before Abimelech; who drove him away, and he departed. I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise [shall] continually [be] in my mouth.